Programs of Study

The Department of Public Administration offers graduate programs leading to a PhD and Master of Public Administration and BS with a major in emergency administration and planning. The curriculum in the MPA program emphasizes a combination of courses and practical experience leading to entry-level management positions for students beginning their professional careers and job advancement for students already in government service. All faculty members have experience in government and maintain contact with managers and professional associations, such as the International City/County Management Association. The MPA at the University of North Texas is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (1120 G Street NW, Suite 730, Washington, DC 20005; 202-628-8965). The curriculum conforms to NASPAA standards. Detailed information on the MPA program may be found in the Graduate Catalog.

Undergraduate students who wish to select public administration as an area of concentration may choose one of three options: a major in emergency administration and planning with a minor in public administration, a major in applied arts and sciences with public administration as one of the professional development areas, or a minor in public administration. Consult the appropriate sections in this catalog for specific details.

Graduate Study

Master’s and doctoral degree programs are available in public administration, including a specialization in emergency administration. For more information, consult the Graduate Catalog.

Emergency Administration and Planning

The Bachelor of Science with a major in emergency administration and planning (EADP) provides theoretical education and technical training for individuals interested in helping governments and businesses to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters and other types of mass emergencies. Established in 1982, the EADP program at the University of North Texas was the first of its kind in the United States.

The EADP program prepares students for careers in emergency management and related fields in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Job titles include local and state emergency coordinators, Federal Emergency Management Agency program analysts, business continuity specialists, hospital disaster planners, and Red Cross emergency service directors.

Courses in EADP are typically offered in the late afternoon and evenings to allow flexibility for those students who simultaneously work and pursue their education. Students not currently employed in the emergency management field are required to participate in an internship with a relevant agency or organization in order to gain experience in preparation for a career in this growing profession.